Agencies

New Delhi, Mar 12: The Election Commission on Thursday slapped a notice on Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav for alleged distribution of cash by his party workers at a Holi function.

Taking cognisance of video footage telecast by television channels, the EC served a notice on the SP leader and sought a reply by March 14, an EC spokesman said.

Earlier, a report from Lucknow said that the EC has also sought a report from the district magistrate on the incident.

The news regarding distribution of money at a "Holi Milan" programme in Yadav's native Saifai in Etawah district was aired by some news channels.

According to the footage, Mulayam Singh's supporters distributed Rs 100 currency notes among a large number of people at the gathering, in his presence.

"It is apparent that the distribution of money in your presence has been made with a view to soliciting votes and support for yourself and your party," the statement said.

The model code of conduct provides that all parties and candidates shall avoid scrupulously all activities which are 'corrupt practices'.